Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. Its coastline is scaped by beautiful rock formations that are some of the oldest volcanic rocks exposed on earth. There are many incredible opportunities to be out on the lake but we ask that you recognize the power of Lake Superior, as conditions can change very quickly. Enjoy Lake Superior but, be safe when you do.

Swimming

Swimming Safety

  1. Try to swim where there are lifeguards and never swim alone. Before entering the water, make sure someone knows you are doing so.

  2. Check the City of Marquette website’s beach flag advisory system before swimming in Lake Superior. Flags are put up at South Beach, McCarty's Cove, and Middle Beach to indicate dangerous to highly dangerous rip current conditions.

  3. Rock formations are a likely place to find dangerously strong rip currents. Only swim at locations where swimming is allowed.

  4. Strong winds on Lake Superior that create huge waves are amazing to see and photograph, but they, too, can be deadly. Do not go into the water or out onto any breakwalls during these high winds.

Sign warning about rip currents near Lake Superior shore in Marquette, MI

Rip Current Safety

Know how to “break the grip of a rip,” if you do find yourself or others caught in a rip current keep in mind these tips to get yourself or guide others to safety. Learn more from the National Weather Service.

If caught in a rip current:

  1. Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.

  2. Never fight against the current.

  3. Think of it like a treadmill that cannot be turned off, which you need to step to the side of.

  4. Swim out of the current parallel to the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.

  5. If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim towards shore.

  6. If you are still unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by waving your arm and yelling for help.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim, too:

  1. Get help from a lifeguard.

  2. If a lifeguard is not available, have someone call 9-1-1.

  3. If possible, throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.

  4. Yell instructions on how to escape.

  5. Do not swim out to help them, this can make the situation worse.

Friends in a speed boat in Lower Harbor on Lake Superior in Marquette, MI.

Boating Safety Tips

Plan Ahead

Before heading out on any adventure on the water be sure to check the weather forecast first. Seagull, which is made and operated by the Great Lakes Observing System, is a great resource for checking wave and wind conditions as well as water temperatures for the Great Lakes. The US Coast Guard also has an app designed to aid adventurers in boating safety. 

A man kayaking near unique rock formations on Lake Superior

Choosing the Right Vessel

Aside from checking the forecast, ask yourself- Do I have the right boating vessel for where I’m going based on US Coast Guard and State of Michigan guidance?   For example, recreational kayaks are not meant for the waves of Lake Superior. Check out the National Park Services guide for paddling on Lake Superior or REI’s How to Choose a Kayak Guide to find out if your boat is the right fit for your intended activity. 

If you don’t have the proper vessel for Lake Superior or are just looking to navigate something smaller, there are also a variety of inland lakes and rivers throughout Marquette County with beautiful features to enjoy. The Michigan DNR website provides an extensive list of where patrons can enjoy a great day on the water.

A couple fishing in a bass boat near Marquette, MI

Know the Water and Rules

In addition to making sure you’ve got the right boat for where you’re going, familiarize yourself with the Coast Guard’s rules and regulations regarding requirement checklists for what you should be carrying in your vessel. Kayakers should always have a life jacket and noise-making device such as a whistle or air horn. Motorized boat requirements include; a fire extinguisher, life jacket for every person, engine cut-off switches, first aid kit, anchor, marine radio, boating safety certificate (which can be obtained here), boat registration, and last but not least, a sober driver. Michigan has a zero-tolerance policy in regard to drinking and boating.

A wooden boat lunch dock in Big Bay, MI

Stop Aquatic Hitch Hikers

Keep the environment safe by cleaning, draining and drying your boat and fishing equipment after each use. Especially when traveling from different bodies of water. Learn more about ways to prevent invasive species.